Did you know?
“Jailhouse Rock” is one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic songs, known for its energetic rock and roll style. Here are some detailed insights into this classic track:
- Release and Chart Performance: “Jailhouse Rock” was released as a single by RCA Victor in September 1957. The song quickly became a massive hit, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying there for seven weeks. It also topped the R&B charts and the UK Singles Chart.
- Musical Style: The song is a prime example of the rock and roll genre of the 1950s. It features a driving, upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and Elvis’s signature vocal style, which combined elements of blues and gospel with a rock and roll edge. The song’s musical arrangement and Elvis’s dynamic performance contributed to its lasting popularity.
- Lyrics and Theme: “Jailhouse Rock” tells the story of a man in jail who becomes a sensation for his dance style, which he shares with his fellow inmates. The song exudes a sense of rebellion and fun, with lyrics like “Shifty Henry said to Bugs, ‘For Heaven’s sake, no one’s looking, now’s our chance to make a break.'” The song’s theme of dancing and having a good time despite the circumstances adds to its appeal.
- Elvis Presley: Elvis Presley, often referred to as the “King of Rock and Roll,” was a cultural icon and one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. “Jailhouse Rock” is one of his signature songs, and his electrifying performance in the 1957 film of the same name solidified the song’s status as one of his greatest hits.
- Film “Jailhouse Rock”: The song is also featured in the film “Jailhouse Rock,” in which Elvis Presley plays the role of Vince Everett, a young man who becomes a singing sensation while serving time in jail. The movie contributed to the song’s popularity and is often cited as one of the classic rock and roll movies of the era.
- Legacy: “Jailhouse Rock” has continued to be celebrated as one of the most iconic rock and roll songs in history. It has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. Elvis’s performance in the song’s movie scene, where he dances on a tabletop, is particularly legendary.
“Jailhouse Rock” remains a timeless classic and a quintessential example of Elvis Presley’s influence on the rock and roll genre. Its combination of catchy music and memorable lyrics has cemented its place in the history of popular music, and it continues to be a beloved and recognizable song.
Video
Lyrics
The warden threw a party in the county jail.
The prison band was there and they began to wail.
The band was jumpin’ and the joint began to swing.
You should’ve heard those knocked out jailbirds sing.
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Spider Murphy played the tenor saxophone,
Little Joe was blowin’ on the slide trombone.
The drummer boy from Illinois went crash, boom, bang,
The whole rhythm section was the Purple Gang.
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Number forty-seven said to number three:
“You’re the cutest jailbird I ever did see.
I sure would be delighted with your company,
Come on and do the Jailhouse Rock with me.”
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Sad Sack was a sittin’ on a block of stone
Way over in the corner weepin’ all alone.
The warden said, “Hey, buddy, don’t you be no square.
If you can’t find a partner use a wooden chair.”
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Shifty Henry said to Bugs, “For Heaven’s sake,
No one’s lookin’, now’s our chance to make a break.”
Bugsy turned to Shifty and he said, “Nix nix,
I wanna stick around a while and get my kicks.”
Let’s rock, everybody, let’s rock.
Everybody in the whole cell block
Was dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock.
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock
Dancin’ to the Jailhouse Rock…